New UNLV wide receiver Jack Killian (6-0, 195) says he is hoping to parlay his success at the junior college level into a successful debut season with the Rebels this fall.

After racking up 992 yards on 55 catches and hauling in 14 touchdowns last season with San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, Calif., Killian hopes he can generate similar numbers at UNLV after transferring in time for this semester and spring practice.

"It was good competition at the JC level I played at, but I know this is D-1," Killian said before heading out to spring break with the rest of the team. "It's more fun out here -- a little more lively."

Getting his first taste of FBS ball at spring practice, the native of Modesto, Calif., took some time to adjust to the new offense, but feels he has already made some strides.

"I started off a little slow, had a few injures, but it's getting better and I'm improving."

Learning the offense will be key for Killian, as the Rebels return their top four wide receivers from a year ago, leaving little room for error for a newcomer. Killian has identified key areas of his game that he wants to improve upon before the 2013 season starts with a trip to Minnesota on August 29.

"(I want to) get a little faster and learn the routes better."

Although his new school has won just two games in each of the last three seasons, Killian hopes that the large amount of returning starters (19) will aid the Rebels in making a big jump in 2013. That large group includes veterans at his position such as starters Devante Davis (854 yards in 2012) and Marcus Sullivan (659 yards).
"They have some accomplished receivers here and from what I've seen they're all really good. We've got some really good guys out here."

Head Coach Bobby Hauck said there is certainly room for an experienced ball-catcher in the Rebel rotation.

"We brought Jack in to give us some depth in the wide receiver group," said the man heading into his fourth year in charge. "He's doing a good job learning our system and the plays this spring and we're excited to see what he can do this season."

Outside of football, Killian said he is working hard in the classroom. Majoring in hotel management, he said he is open to sticking around Las Vegas after graduation if the right job offer comes along.

Although he has yet to play a single D-1 game, Killian hopes his past success will help him make an immediate impact on the field for UNLV.

"I'm hoping to," Killian said. "I want to help this football team out and help myself out by doing so."

After taking this week off, UNLV returns to the field on Monday (April 1) to finish up with two more weeks of practice. The public is invited to attend the FREE family-friendly Spring Showcase on Friday April 12 at Rebel Park that begins at 5:30 p.m. The third annual event is scheduled to include activities for kids, autograph and photo opportunities with staff and players as well as concessions stands offering food and drink for purchase.